5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Carcassonne and Bordeaux and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lourdes and Gez. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Pau. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Grottes De Bétharram is the perfect place to start. This cave system is one of the most underrated places to visit in Pau. Next, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a worthwhile church, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees. This visually striking zoo is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Rapière offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Château Comtal. This curiosity-inducing castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cité De Carcassonne, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Jardin Des Plantes, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Carcassonne. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Brun. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Whose Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bordeaux and Biarritz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Jardin Public. This captivating park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Monument Aux Girondins, a culturally significant monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Miroir D'eau. Round off your day at Rocher De La Vierge, another gem in Bordeaux with serene features to discover.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Pau. Pau offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pau. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.